Dutch Bros Black Forest Mocha Copycat Recipe (Taste Test)
This spring mocha is like drinking a Black Forest cake. Rich chocolate and espresso blend with sweet cherry soft top that melts into every sip. The cherry flavor is bright and fruity without being artificial - it's indulgent and perfect for spring coffee cravings.
Ingredients
Main ingredients
- espresso (double shot) 2 shots
- whole milk 1 cup
- chocolate syrup 2 tbsp
- maraschino cherry syrup 1 tbsp
- ice 1 cup
Seasonings/Sauce
- whipped cream 1 cup
- maraschino cherry syrup 2 tsp
- chocolate shavings 1 tbsp
Nutrition summary
Carbohydrates
52 g
58%
Protein
8 g
9%
Fat
12 g
33%
Cooking steps
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1
Pull a double shot of espresso (2 shots) using your espresso machine. For a home shortcut, brew 4 oz of very strong coffee at a 1:2 ratio. Dutch Bros uses bold espresso for their mochas.
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2
In a microwave-safe container or on the stove, heat 1 cup of whole milk to 150°F (steaming hot but not boiling). Whisk in 2 tbsp chocolate syrup and 1 tbsp maraschino cherry syrup until fully dissolved.
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3
Fill a 16oz cup with 1 cup of ice. Pour the hot chocolate-cherry milk mixture over the ice, stirring to cool it slightly while maintaining a rich texture.
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4
Pour the freshly made espresso over the milk and ice, gently swirling to create a slight color gradient—the Dutch Bros technique distinguishes the layers and flavor swirls in every sip.
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5
For the cherry soft top, whisk together 1 cup whipped cream with 2 tsp maraschino cherry syrup until soft peaks form. Spoon generously on top of the drink. Finish with a sprinkle of chocolate shavings to echo the Black Forest cake theme.
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6
Serve immediately with a wide straw for the full Dutch Bros effect. Enjoy the cherry soft top melting into each sip!
Personalized Q&A
Q. Does this taste exactly like Dutch Bros Black Forest Mocha?
This recipe closely replicates Dutch Bros by using a double shot of strong espresso and a mix of chocolate and cherry syrups, just like their spring menu. Following Dutch Bros technique—layering espresso after milk and topping with cherry soft top—delivers that signature indulgent Black Forest experience.
Q. Is this recipe difficult to make at home?
It's very approachable for home cooks! You only need 6 basic steps: pull espresso, heat milk with syrups, layer over ice, finish with homemade cherry soft top, and assemble. The tools required are common (espresso maker or strong coffee, microwave/stovetop, whisk), and the total time is about 10 minutes.
Q. Can I substitute any ingredients in this recipe?
Yes! For espresso, you can use 4 oz strong brewed coffee. Any milk (dairy or non-dairy) works, and chocolate syrup brands are flexible. If you don’t have maraschino cherry syrup, mix cherry preserves with a splash of water and strain, or use cherry extract (in smaller amounts).
Q. How many calories are in this homemade Black Forest Mocha?
Each homemade Black Forest Mocha contains about 360 calories per 16oz serving. Carbohydrates make up 52g (58%), protein is 8g (9%), and fat is 12g (33%)—based on the ingredients and generous Dutch Bros portions for the soft top and syrups.
Q. Can I customize the flavors in this drink?
Absolutely! Dutch Bros drinks are famous for their customization. Try swapping cherry syrup for raspberry, strawberry, or hazelnut. You can also reduce or increase syrup amounts for more or less sweetness, or use sugar-free syrups if preferred.
